is december 26 a legal holiday

2 min read 09-03-2025

Meta Description: Is December 26th a federal holiday in the US? Find out if you get the day off, plus learn about state and local variations in holiday observances. This comprehensive guide clarifies the legal status of December 26th as a holiday.

December 26th often falls right after the Christmas holiday, leaving many wondering about its status as a legal holiday. The simple answer is: no, December 26th is not a federal legal holiday in the United States. This means most federal government employees work as usual. However, the situation is more nuanced than that.

The Federal Holiday Picture

The US federal government recognizes ten official holidays. December 26th isn't one of them. This means federal employees are generally expected to work unless their workplace observes it differently. Federal holidays are mandated by law, ensuring consistent time off across the country. Christmas Day (December 25th), however, is a federal holiday.

State and Local Variations

While December 26th isn't a nationally mandated holiday, some states or localities may observe it as a holiday. This is often done for various reasons, including:

Observance of religious holidays: Some regions with strong religious populations might give the day off as an extension of the Christmas celebration.
Local traditions: Some areas may have established local traditions that include December 26th as a day of rest or celebration.
Government discretion: State and local governments often have some leeway to decide their own holiday schedules.

To find out if December 26th is a holiday where you live, you should check:

Your state government's website: Look for official calendars or holiday schedules.
Your employer's policies: Even if it's not a legally recognized holiday, your employer may choose to give employees the day off as a benefit or due to business needs.
Your local government's website: County and city governments may have their own holiday schedules.

Understanding Holiday Observances

It's important to distinguish between a "legal holiday" and a "company holiday." A legal holiday is mandated by law. A company holiday is a day off granted by an individual employer. Many companies, regardless of the legal status of December 26th, may give their employees the day off as a courtesy or to extend the Christmas break.

Common Misconceptions

The proximity of December 26th to Christmas often leads to confusion. People might assume it's also a holiday because of the general festive atmosphere. However, it's crucial to consult official sources to determine its legal status in your area.

Beyond the US: Other Countries

While this article focuses on the United States, it's worth noting that holiday observances vary significantly worldwide. Many countries have different official holidays and may or may not observe December 26th.

Conclusion: December 26th Holiday Status

In summary, December 26th is not a federal holiday in the United States. However, the possibility of it being a state, local, or company holiday exists. Always check official sources to verify its status in your specific location and with your employer. Don't rely on assumptions based solely on its proximity to Christmas. Remember to check with your employer to confirm whether you'll have the day off.